Homestead Barn Repair and Restoration

The siding has been removed, and several beams are being carefully placed in order to lift the barn off of its foundation.  Underneath the steel beams, thick timbers are laid on the side and crossed in a process called cribbing.  This stack of lumber has enough stability to hold the barn up while the foundation is being replaced.

A special drill was used to mortise this timber for the insertion of stabilizing hardware.

This picture shows the hardware that was inserted into the mortise to strengthen the framing.  There is another one on the other side.

When the old roofing was removed, it was discovered that the 2x4 rafters were all rotted on top and had to be replaced.   The ridge beam had a swale in it, but we were able to save it by adding additional framing.

Railings in the loft keep folks from tumbling down the stairwell.

The barn had one opening to lift and drop loose hay through.  At the time the barn was built, balers hadn't been invented.

A festive wreath adorns the finished barn.